When Irishman Phil Kieran dropped ‘Le Carousel’ earlier this year, it went somewhat under the radar, him having adopted the French pseudonym in order to release what was a concept album of sorts.
Perhaps best known for techno releases on Cocoon and Electric Deluxe, Kieran headed over to Donegal and recruited some exceptionally talented musicians for his second full band project (the first was ‘We Have Control’ by Alloy Mental, released on Skint in 2007). ‘Le Carousel’ takes us on a journey that lifts and surprises, and has been described by Kieran himself as: “a metaphor for the rotations constantly occurring in daily life”.
Now, though, for a new body of work that leaves behind its electronica roots and ushers in a heavier, more dancefloor-oriented sound, ‘Le Carousel’ has been reworked and reinterpreted as ‘Le Carousel Remixes’, delivering an entirely different feel and flavour. The swirling instrumentals of the original are joined by focused bass lines, and with remixes from the likes of Andrew Weatherall, David Holmes & Kieran himself, ‘Le Carousel’ has morphed into a diverse selection of adventurous club tunes.
The remix compilation stands on its own two feet and doesn’t mirror the sounds of the original to any great extent – but it doesn’t need to. Personally, I think it’s an even better album, and one that varies massively from track to track, with the individual producers adding a touch of their own personality to each remix.
For me, the standout track is Kieran’s own remix of ‘Good Times’, which blends a Depeche Mode-like sound with the lyric: “Come back to me”, allowing the vocals to soar above a warm, layered techno groove. Other tracks have a different approach; ‘My Saviour’, remixed by Roel Hoogendoorn, takes us to the other end of the spectrum – it’s less fixed on the vocal than the original, but rises and falls emphatically and fantastically, with a minimal yet progressive synth sound.
While the vocals are generally deep and reminiscent throughout the album, the soundscape is anything but. The two elements combine to create a whimsical record with moments of brilliance, one such example being the mix of ‘Away’ by Ivan Smagghe, which builds from ambient roots and leaves us in emotional turmoil.
There’s something for everyone on this LP – whether you’re into experimental sounds, deeper techno vibes or even the bitty electro of ‘Stick Together’ (Phil Kieran Remix) – It’s a bold and blissful affair, taking many unexpected turns.
Le Carousel Remixes has been very carefully curated by Kieran, with a number of tracks omitted from the final cut. His selection has an undulating nature that makes for a memorable ride, if you stay on from the beginning to the end.
The album is out now on Phil Kieran Recordings, distributed via Word & Sound. Check it out below…
Words by Andrew Williams: @ffrantic
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